Understanding Baffle Types in Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers: A Comprehensive Guide
Explore the different types of baffles used in shell and tube heat exchangers, their purposes, and benefits, including transverse and longitudinal baffles, plate baffles, and grid baffles. Baffles may be classified as transverse and longitudinal types. The purpose of longitudinal baffles is to control the overall flow direction of the shell fluid such that a desired overall flow arrangement of the two fluid streams is achieved. For example, F, G, and H shells have longitudinal baffles (see Fig. 1.6). Transverse baffles may be classified as plate baffles and grid (rod, strip, and other axial-flow) baffles. Plate baffles are used to support the tubes during assembly and operation and to direct the fluid in the tube bundle approximately at right angles to the tubes to achieve higher heat transfer coefficients. Plate baffles increase the turbulence of the shell fluid and minimize tube-to-tube temperature differences and thermal stresses due to the crossflow. Shown in F...